Family-sponsored immigration allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor eligible family members for U.S. residency. Through this process, family members can obtain lawful permanent resident status (a green card) based on their relationship with a U.S. citizen or green card holder.

There are two primary categories in family-sponsored immigration:

1. Immediate Relatives: This category includes spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens aged 21 or older. Immediate relatives benefit from priority processing and are exempt from annual numerical limits.

2. Family Preference: This category includes unmarried children of U.S. citizens who are 21 or older, spouses and unmarried children of permanent residents, and married children and siblings of U.S. citizens. Family preference categories are subject to annual limits, so there may be waiting periods for visa availability.

The process begins with the U.S. citizen or permanent resident filing a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for their eligible family member. Once USCIS approves the petition, the family member can apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their country. Given the process’s complexity, consulting with an immigration attorney can be helpful to understand eligibility criteria, documentation, and processing times accurately.